We recently connected with Malika Williams and have shared our conversation below.
Malika , so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
As an African American woman I strive to go against the norm because I know about all the stereotypes that were placed upon my life even before I was born. Being the only person in the room that looks like me, provides me the confidence I need to understand the importance of my presence. I have to be the voice of those that don’t have one. My definition of success is being able to take accountability while being transparent. No one is perfect. We all make mistakes in life learning and adjusting is what counts. Every chapter in our lives led to various journeys. In which we have to learn to be mindful of others perspectives while including our own experiences to make the most effective decision. Effectiveness comes in the form of consistency. “Keep going” is my motto.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
The L.I.V.E Outreach was founded in 2014 with the idea of assisting foster youth with necessities outside of the foster care system. Providing these youth with essential life skills such as financial literacy, dietary education, book club/storytelling and so much more. The objective for the org is to provide these children with the adequate resources to be empowered and to utilize those tools to become successfully productive adults. As the organization grew so did the need for children outside of that particular demographic. The organization decided to open programming for youth in under-served circumstances as well.
The birth behind the idea of the organization was because I was that kid that needed these resources. Being a teen mother in foster care was a scary time for me but I’m thankful I’m able to bless others with my testimony in the hope to encourage, motivate and inspire others around the world. That’s why I wrote an autobiography titled “I’m just trying to L.I.V.E”. The book provides insight into my life as a teen parent in foster care experiencing incarceration at the age of seventeen. This book can be purchased on Amazon.
The L.I.V.E Outreach is celebrating 10 years of servicing the community this July by giving away Bikes, kites & burgers to families within the community. The org is working with the University of Detroit Mercy school of Detroit Collaborative Design Center team who are assisting with designing our newest project. The L.I.V.E Outreach mobile mentoring hub. The plan is to be at a park, recreation or school near you in 2025. Our team is constantly looking for strategic ways and partners to get the vision out there so we can get the adequate support needed to expand and help more people. The org is looking for qualified board members to provide their passion and expertise to the team. Volunteers who love to give back and donors who want to financially support the mission. We appreciate all the support and is so grateful for all the future has to offer as The L.I.V.E Outreach continues to grow.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Each individual possesses qualities which allow them to be empowered to sharpen their skill sets to enhance their future and its experiences. Three great qualities to gain to embark on a successful journey is to be social, you have to ask questions and be curious. Life is a learning experience everyday. Of course consistency which are small efforts done daily. Even when we can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel it’s imperative to keep going even through circumstances we weren’t prepared for. We can’t forget about dedication. Which means showing up even when you’re tired you have to be intentional with your goals during the process.
Everyday is an opportunity to be better and learn something new. It’s all in how you manage and strategized the priorities in your life. Maintaining a positive attitude or making the best out of the situation allows you to view things from all perspectives. Just remember the world is special because you exist in it. Everyone learns at their own pace just stay focused and take small steps towards the prize. You will get there!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, the organization is always looking for passionate, honest and dedicated people to help expand the vision. This mission wouldn’t be possible without the supporters. Who we are so grateful and thankful for.
Currently we are looking for eligible and qualified board members to sit on our board locally or non-locally. So, for anyone that can provide their expertise and time in financial literacy, budgeting, fundraising, project management and more is more than welcome to connect with me. I’m eager to learn so that I’m able to be more effective and efficient when serving the community.
The L.I.V.E Outreach are also looking for youth within the metro Detroit area between the ages of 17-24 to join our youth committee to provide insight on how we can better serve our youth and create programming that will be beneficially long term.
Collaboration with various organizations around the globe is the overall goal. It takes a village! When you think about the missions of organizations around the world we are all trying to achieve the same objective, to make a positive difference in our community. Any interest please email The L.I.V.E Outreach at [email protected]
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theliveoutreach.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theliveoutreach/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liveoutreach
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malika-williams-36a19a37/
- Twitter: https://x.com/theliveoutreach
Image Credits
Nikki Closser
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
